Westbury Square on Airport Road has been purchased by JLL Income Property Trust from Branch Properties for about $32 million, the firm announced Wednesday. JLL is a Chicago-based net asset value real estate investment trust.

In a news release on the purchase, the firm cited the area’s booming economy, including its combination of affordable living, quality education and high-paying jobs that contribute to its continued population growth.

“Westbury Square is a strategic addition to our retail portfolio,” said Allan Swaringen, president and CEO of JLL Income Property Trust. “As core real estate investors, we target retail centers with strong demographics, favorable operating fundamentals and credit-worthy tenant lineups.”

The 12-acre retail/dining center in South Huntsville is anchored by TJ Maxx and Michaels with other tenants such as Rolo’s Cafe, Surin of Thailand, Metro Diner and Chicken Salad Chick.

“Westbury Square has a strong tenant roster with impressive tenure and is well-positioned in a submarket with limited vacancy, making it an attractive investment for us.”

The center recently underwent a facelift that included upgrading the storefronts, the main sign at the entrance and the parking lot.

In September 2024, CBRE Capital Markets arranged a $16.5 million loan to refinance the property for Branch Properties, which had owned the center since March 2018. Branch Properties is an Atlanta-based real estate investment firm focused on shopping centers in the Southeast.

Westbury Square was at the epicenter of the November 1989 tornado that left 21 people dead and injured nearly 500 others. The F-4 tornado flattened the shopping center, leaving every business in rubble as it stormed up Airport Road and over into Jones Valley.